Bench Encounters

A series of conversations showcasing the power of the stories of older people and the knowledge they have gained through their many life experiences. 

Event Title: Bench Encounters
Who: The Performance Ensemble (UK) and Arts' Options (HK)
Theme: Connect
Genre: Multi-media project (pre-recorded films and live performance)
Location: AIRSIDE 2/F Atrium
Age group: All ages
Registration required: Yes

Inspired by “The Friendship Bench” by psychiatrist Dixon Chibanda, in Zimbabwe, “Bench Encounters” is a multimedia project of pre-recorded films and a live performance. The piece aims to capture the moments of life that although may appear small and insignificant hold great amounts of meaning. The core idea is that by listening to the real-life stories of older people and how they have overcome their struggles, younger people can learn the skills to cope in similar situations.

The pre-recorded films document a series of conversations between Chinese and British people on a bench in different locations in Leeds and Hong Kong.

The live performance, taking place at the AIRSIDE on 20 October 2024, displays conversations between five pairs of a young and an older person sitting on a bench to showcase the power of stories told by older individuals.

#Simultaneous Interpretation (Cantonese and Mandarin) will be provided.